20/1997

Collection

Metalwork

Brief description

Candlestick with a stepped octagonal base, baluster stem and knops towards the bottom, and a split at the base of the nozzle, cast in brass and made in England c.1715.

Object name

candlestick

Object number

20/1997

Production date

c.1715 (manufactured)

Production place

England (manufactured)

Period

Stuart (1603-1714)
Georgian (1714-1837)

Material

brass

Technique

sand cast
turned
brazed

Physical description

This brass candlestick has a stepped octagonal base, with a baluster stem composed of an upper slightly elongated spherical knop, above two more flange-shaped knops, the middle one with a split. The vertical seam (the join from casting) is visible, just opening up slightly towards the base. The top baluster looks round but feeling it shows that it is faceted, which indicates, according to Roderick Butler, that it has been worn (probably through cleaning) over time. Originally this baluster would have matched the octagonal base. The base of the candlestick looks thoroughly old with signs of wear; it has not been disturbed or polished. There are some holes in thin parts of the casting. There are no signs of repair.

Dimensions

Height: 18.5cm
Diameter: 11cm

Website keywords

candle and rush lighting

Label

Label text, Geffrye Museum, date unknown:
Brass candlestick, c. 1700-1710.

Label text for 'Lighting the home' case, Information Bay 5, Geffrye Museum, 2010:
Candlestick, 1700–1710
Brass
The baluster candlestick was an enduring type; although there were variations in style as fashions changed, candlesticks not too different from this one were used in middling households right up to the end of the nineteenth century.